Linkage studies aimed at identifying the chromosomal loci for genes involved in schizophrenia continue to yield conflicting results. However, investigation of the optimal size and structure of pedigrees, more consistent ways of using diagnostic schema, newer highly informative probes and an international collaboration between researchers should enhance the ability to detect linkage. Important studies have also emerged that use methods complementary to linkage, such as the direct examination of candidate genes and the investigation of cytogenetic abnormalities that cosegregate with illness.